Name: Sweet Maple White Chocolate Cookies for Cozy Holiday Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter, softened (Creates a rich, tender dough.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the dough.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adds moisture and caramel flavor.); 1 large Egg (Binds the ingredients together.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensures cookies rise perfectly.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Infuses warmth.); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavors.); 1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup (Essential for cozy flavor.); 1 cup White Chocolate Melting Wafers (Recommended: Ghirardelli.); 2 tablespoons Holly Berry Sprinkles (For festive decoration.)

The sound of laughter and the sweet aroma of warm cookies wafting through the air—nothing prepares the heart for the holiday season quite like that magical moment. In my kitchen, the recipe for Chewy Maple White Chocolate Cookies has become an absolute favorite, blending the comforting flavors of maple and cinnamon in every delightful bite. Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to whip up, but they also add a festive flair to any holiday gathering—perfect for cookie trays or even as heartfelt homemade gifts. With a rich, creamy white chocolate drizzle and charming holly berry sprinkles, these cookies might just become your new holiday tradition. Are you ready to embrace the spirit of the season and indulge in some cookie-making fun?

Why are Maple White Chocolate Cookies a must-try?

Deliciously Cozy: These cookies capture the essence of the holidays with their warm maple and cinnamon flavors.
Easy to Make: Perfect for novice bakers; you’ll whip these up in no time!
Festive Appeal: The glossy white chocolate and holly berry sprinkles make them visually stunning for any dessert table.
Gift-Worthy: Package them in decorative tins for a thoughtful homemade gift this season.
Versatile Treat: Try different flavors with optional variations, like dark chocolate or almond extract. These Maple White Chocolate Cookies are sure to become a family favorite!

Maple White Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

• To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to form a festive treat.

For the Cookie Dough

Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookie Dough – Essential for the cozy flavor; opt for pure maple syrup for an authentic touch.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; keep it measured accurately for the right texture.
Baking Soda – Ensures the cookies rise perfectly; don’t skip this for fluffiness.
Salt – Enhances the flavors while balancing the sweetness; just a pinch will do.
Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Creates a rich, tender dough; room temperature butter mixes better.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens the dough; feel free to substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; light or dark varieties work!
Egg (1 large) – Binds the ingredients together; substitute with a flax egg for vegan options.
Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Infuses warmth; adjust based on your taste preference.

For the Topping

White Chocolate Melting Wafers (1 cup) – Brings a creamy, sweet finish; Ghirardelli is recommended for smooth melting.
Holly Berry Sprinkles (2 tablespoons) – Perfect for festive decoration; any holiday sprinkles can be used as a substitute.

Embrace the spirit of the season with these Maple White Chocolate Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple White Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Dough Preparation
Begin by preparing the chewy maple cinnamon cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the egg until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined, and fold in pure maple syrup. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance its texture and minimize spreading during baking.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the optimal temperature for perfect maple white chocolate cookies. Prepare a light-colored baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent over-browning while baking. The combination of the preheated oven and parchment paper will help the cookies achieve that delightful golden edge.

Step 3: Portioning the Dough
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and weigh out 1.5 oz portions of the dough. Use your hands to roll each portion into a smooth ball. Space the dough balls at least two inches apart on your prepared baking sheet, as the cookies will spread while baking. This ensures that your maple white chocolate cookies maintain their shape and don’t merge together during the process.

Step 4: Baking the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the edges should appear firm, while the centers may still be slightly puffy and have small cracks. This is the perfect visual cue to ensure that your maple white chocolate cookies remain soft and chewy within. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

Step 5: Cooling
Once the cookies have cooled slightly on the baking sheet, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it allows the cookies to firm up properly while maintaining their tender, chewy interior. Make sure they are fully cooled before moving on to the next step—this ensures the chocolate will coat evenly without melting.

Step 6: Melting the Chocolate
While the cookies cool, melt the white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. Be cautious to avoid scorching the chocolate. This creamy white chocolate will be the perfect topping for your delightful maple white chocolate cookies.

Step 7: Dipping the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate. Make sure to coat them generously for that creamy finish. Place the dipped cookies back on the parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off. This step adds a wonderful sweetness that complements the warm maple base beautifully.

Step 8: Decorating Cookies
While the melted chocolate is still warm, drizzle any remaining white chocolate over the dipped half of the cookies. Sprinkle holly berry sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets. This festive decoration not only enhances the visual appeal but also gives your maple white chocolate cookies a cheerful holiday touch. Allow the cookies to rest until the chocolate is completely set.

Expert Tips for the Best Maple White Chocolate Cookies

Chill the Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This prevents spreading, leading to perfectly thick Maple White Chocolate Cookies.
Light Baking Sheets: Always use light-colored baking sheets. Dark sheets can cause cookies to over-brown, ruining that beautiful golden finish.
Watch the Baking Time: Remove cookies when the centers are still slightly soft. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, preserving their soft, chewy texture.
Melt Chocolate Gently: Melt white chocolate at 50% power in the microwave. Stir every 30 seconds to avoid scorching and achieve a smooth consistency.
Sprinkle Immediately: Add sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. This ensures they stick well and add that festive flair to your Maple White Chocolate Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Maple White Chocolate Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prepping, making your holiday baking as stress-free as possible! You can prepare the maple cinnamon cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; just be sure to keep it well-wrapped to prevent any drying out. For even easier assembly, scoop and roll the dough into balls and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough balls overnight in the refrigerator before baking as per the original instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm cookies with minimal effort, just as delicious as if they were made the same day!

How to Store and Freeze Maple White Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 10 days. This keeps them fresh while slightly changing the texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies layered between parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To refresh chilled or frozen cookies, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, restoring that comforting warmth and softness.

What to Serve with Maple White Chocolate Cookies?

Creating the perfect holiday dessert spread is all about balance, and these delightful cookies can shine alongside some beautiful pairings.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich cocoa complements the sweet maple, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, comforting drink that adds seasonal warmth, enhancing the cozy flavors of the cookies.
Festive Cheesecake Bites: The creamy texture and slight tang of cheesecake provide a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies.
Chopped Nut Salad: Crunchy textures from almonds and pecans offer a refreshing balance to the sweetness. Tossed in a maple vinaigrette, it ties in beautifully!
Gingerbread Dippers: Pair with spicy gingerbread cookies for a delightful flavor duet, perfect for dunking in hot drinks.
Pecan Pie Bars: These sweet bars add a nutty richness, complementing the flavors of the maple, creating an indulgent dessert tableau.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side adds a creamy coolness, melting joyously against the warm cookies.
Mulled Wine: Warm and aromatic, this drink enhances the overall festive atmosphere, making your cookie feast even more merry.
Decorative Fruit Platter: Fresh cranberries and stars of the season like clementines can invigorate the dessert table with their colors and tastes.

These pairings will surely elevate your holiday gathering, leaving everyone feeling merry and satisfied!

Maple White Chocolate Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around with these cookies, and make them uniquely yours by exploring different flavors and textures!

Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and a nutty addition.
Dairy-Free: Swap the white chocolate for dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely vegan treat that’s still delicious.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a fruity burst that complements the maple beautifully.
Cinnamon Lovers: Increase the ground cinnamon to 1.5 teaspoons for an extra punch of warmth and holiday spice.
Maple Glaze: Instead of dipping in chocolate, drizzle a simple maple glaze made with powdered sugar and maple syrup for a fully maple experience.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising kick that plays well with the sweet and creamy notes.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Substitute milk or white chocolate with rich dark chocolate for a deeper flavor profile that balances the sweetness of the maple.

Pair these variations with delightful festive recipes like Turkey Sugar Cookies or treat yourself to some festive Red White Blue Bark for a broader dessert spread that captures every taste!

Maple White Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of maple syrup should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Maple White Chocolate Cookies, opt for pure maple syrup. Not only does it lend a rich, authentic sweetness, but it’s also free from additives that can alter the taste. Avoid pancake syrup as it often contains corn syrup and artificial flavors.

How should I store the cookies, and how long will they last?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them for up to 10 days. Just remember, refrigeration can change their texture slightly—they may become firmer.

Can I freeze Maple White Chocolate Cookies?
Very! Freezing is a great option for these cookies. To freeze, layer the cooled cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful softness.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, it typically means the dough wasn’t chilled sufficiently, or your oven temperature is too low. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, as this helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. If you suspect your oven is on the cooler side, consider using an oven thermometer to ensure an accurate temperature.

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The ingredients in Maple White Chocolate Cookies do not include nuts. However, make sure to check the labels on your white chocolate wafers, as some brands may process their products in facilities that handle nuts, leading to cross-contamination. Always inform guests with allergies about your baking ingredients.

Can I substitute white chocolate with another type of chocolate?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can substitute white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate in your Maple White Chocolate Cookies. Just remember that you may need to adjust the melting time, as different chocolates have varying melting points. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to suit your taste!